Bloodstone (Deadtown, #3)

Oct 10, 2011 Anna rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: review-books

I reviewed the entire series for Bite Club and the review will be live on 10/11/11. Here's what I had to say about book 3:

Bloodstone, the latest and in my opinion the greatest Deadtown novel, was turned loose in bookstores everywhere on September 27th. If you haven't started this series then you are missing out on one of the most original urban fantasy settings to date. Book 3 brings us more Mab, more with Gwen and Maria (Vicky's ex-shifting sister that hates Mab and her soon to be shifting niec...more

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Oct 02, 2011 Ami rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: urban-fantasy-paranormal-futuristic

It's six weeks after the event in book #2. Vicky's vampire roommate Juliet Capulet (yes, THE Juliet Capulet) suddenly calls from The Goons' Squad HQ, saying that she has voluntarily looking for protective custody. She has been running from the Old Ones. It seems that Old Ones are gaining help from centuries old insanely evil wizard, Myrddin Wyllt, as they are trying to gain immortal life. But Myrddin has a side plan, he wants to revive his son, Pryce (who wants Vicky to bear his child in book #2...more

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Dec 29, 2012 Joshua Burns rated it 4 of 5 stars

As seen on Rabidreads.ca:

The primary plot of this book is brimming with mythological and monstrous (paranormal to be politically correct like some characters in the book) beings. But based on the cover and the blurb you will probably have already heard about these genre staples. Where this book shines and where its cover and market may give it too little credit are in the familial interactions that occur- although, of course, as would be expected mediated by some unbelievable event- when a young...more

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Nov 09, 2011 Sara rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 4-5-stars

Plot: 4.5 Stars
I love that each book in this series starts out with a regular demon extermination job for Vicky. It gives us a look into her normal life, between the life-threatening moments, without boring us with their smaller and less mysterious complications. It's also a great way for the author to introduce readers to the different kinds of demons in a fun way. The Reaper put Boston on edge, allowing those in charge that do not sympathize with the paranormals to put Deadtown on lockdown. Th...more Plot: 4.5 Stars
I love that each book in this series starts out with a regular demon extermination job for Vicky. It gives us a look into her normal life, between the life-threatening moments, without boring us with their smaller and less mysterious complications. It's also a great way for the author to introduce readers to the different kinds of demons in a fun way. The Reaper put Boston on edge, allowing those in charge that do not sympathize with the paranormals to put Deadtown on lockdown. This posed a pretty big problem for Vicky as she tried to stop Reaper from finishing the ritual, but she found a very interesting way to sneak out. This was another fantastic addition to one of my favorite Urban Fantasy series. I can't wait for book four.

Pace: 5 Stars
I could not put this novel down. After totally and completely loving Deadtown, I found Hellforged to be a bit slower in pacing, so I was so excited that this novel's pace was more consistent with the first book. For a good portion of the novel, Vicky was one step behind the South End Reaper and she tried her best to catch up so that she could stop him. It didn't leave much time for her to slow down, which led to less down time between the craziness. There were even a few plotlines from book two that hadn't been tied up. They could've easily distracted Vicky or just slowed the plot's progression down, but instead they wove together with this book's plot perfectly.

Characters: 4.5 Stars
Vicky is one of my favorite kick-ass Urban Fantasy heroines. This novel forced her to be a bit more vulnerable than previous novels, and it was very interesting to see how she dealt with these circumstances. I wish we could've seen more of her shapshifting in this novel, but I understand that she can't shift all willy-nilly like some paranormal creatures. It was also interesting to see her neice growing up and possibly coming into her powers. Learning the truth about why her sister hates Mab was unexpected. Although Juliet came out of hiding, she was still out of commission for most of the novel. I really hope she has a larger part in the next novel because I miss her sense of humor and odd mannerisms. Kane's part was definitely not what I expected considering he was stuck in the wrong form, and definitely posed a number of problems for Vicky. I was also very glad to see Tina quit acting like quite as much of a diva as she did in book two. Her zombie buddies actually helped Vicky out when she really needed it.

Cover: 4.5 Stars
It's great to finally see Vicky's face, and the progression of the cover model turning to the read over the three novels is a nice touch. On the Deadtown cover, Vicky is facing completely away from the reader as she looks out over the city. On the Hellforged cover, Vicky has turned towards the reader a bit, but not enough to get a good look. On this cover, Vicky is facing the reader and she's still holding her flaming sword. I also really enjoyed the deep blues of the cover and how well the flaming sword stoof out against it. And don't get me started on the grim reaper-like image floating in the sky. I totally didn't notice it at first. Then one day while I was in the middle of the novel, I noticed him and it creeped me out a bit. I kinda wanted to warn the cover model to watch her back, because he's totally sneaking up on her. This series has definitely been blessed with fantastic cover from the cover gods.

Overall: 4.5 Stars

Disclosure: I received a copy of this novel for review from Ace/Roc. (less)

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Sep 29, 2011 Donna (BLHmistress) rated it 5 of 5 stars

I have been wanting to read this series for awhile so when this book came up on tour, I had to sign up and nearly squealed when my copy came in the mail. Only thing that concerned me was because I haven't read the other 2 books would I become confused but Nancy does a wonderful job of not doing so.

I think I found another series and author that is a must buy for me. The action is packed all the way through and the different kind of demons is fascinating to me , especially the Peccatum which uses...more

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Nov 29, 2012 Ana rated it 4 of 5 stars

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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Oct 01, 2011 Michelle rated it 4 of 5 stars

Bloodstone is the third book in the Deadtown series by Nancy Holzner and an ACE Fantasy.

Book Blurb:

Boston's diverse South End is known for its architecture and great restaurants, not its body count. So when mutilated human corpses begin turning up in the area, the entire city takes notice.

The killer - dubbed the South End Reaper - uses a curved blade for his grisly work. And even though there's no real evidence pointing to a paranormal culprit, the deaths are straining the already-tense relatio...more

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Sep 23, 2011 Kt from A Book Obsession.. rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: received-for-review, hardcopy

There's a killer on the loose. You wouldn't think that should be such shocking news considering all the "monsters" out there in Deadtown, and yet there's something different about these kills. The bodies are so far brutalized that they are hard recognizable, so of course the humans in Boston instantly start pointing fingers at the residents of Deadtown. But if there is one thing Vicky knows, it's that humans can be every bit as violent as the worst monster, maybe even worse. As the body count gr...more There's a killer on the loose. You wouldn't think that should be such shocking news considering all the "monsters" out there in Deadtown, and yet there's something different about these kills. The bodies are so far brutalized that they are hard recognizable, so of course the humans in Boston instantly start pointing fingers at the residents of Deadtown. But if there is one thing Vicky knows, it's that humans can be every bit as violent as the worst monster, maybe even worse. As the body count grows higher she scrambles to find out anything she can. But when things start hitting way too close to home, even with help, she knows this time it may just be her final curtain call.

While Bloodstone had a slower pace just like the previous installment, it differed in that it didn't feel like things were dragging. The lack of action was easily overlooked as we got to learn so much more about Mab and the past. So many pressing questions were answered that it kept me with the sense of feeling that things were moving, as well as more than keeping my attention. Even the parts of action seemed to be furthering the overall motion of the series rather than only focusing on the task at hand. The reasons and culprits behind the current "mess" were very tied into Mab's mysterious past and as a result made then directly effect Vicky in turn. This pulled me even more into the book, making for a quite enjoyable read.

Although the time between Vicky and Kane was really only brief moments in the book, I couldn't help but to notice that their relationship seems so much more substantial and full of depth. In the first installment they were almost casual acquaintances, despite the fact that they had been "dating" for years. Now, it really feels like each one is a very important part of one another's life and I really enjoyed seeing that. I just happen to be one of those people who think a little romance will always make a book better, so I definitely am a happy camper after reading Bloodstone. Of course others may have complaints about this area because as I mentioned, the time spent together is really rather brief. Yet, they are solidifying things and moving forward, which is good news to me and really all I can ask for at this point based on who they are.

Bloodstone may very well be my favorite installment of the Deadtown series. Things were centered back in Deadtown after spending so much time outside of it previously, definitely a plus. Also there was the relationship progression and the answers to many lurking questions. Finally, with an ending that shows the beginning of a very promising future, and you have one heck of an entertaining book. I for one will be counting down the days to the release of the fourth installment. I cannot wait to see what Vicky gets herself into next!(less)

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Sep 01, 2012 Casey rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 4-stars, urban-fantasy, parnormal

4 stars

(spoilers)
I liked this one. I really enjoy Mab and we got to see lots of her. She actually came to Boston. The driving part was funny. Tina is still super obnoxious. The less we see of her the better.

I liked Kane in wolf form. It actually seemed to further the relationship between Vicky and Kane and I think he makes a cute 'killer'. I also felt that Vicky realized a bit more just how attached she is to Kane and how far she would go for him.

I was sad for Norden's ending. I feel a little...more

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Oct 30, 2011 Romancing the Book rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban-fantasy

Reviewed by Sarah H
Book provided by publisher

Bloodstone is an excellent addition to the Deadtown series. I think the world the author has created is unique and deeply interesting. I positively enjoy all the paranormal elements created in this series. The writing is action packed, fast paced and easily read. I had a hard time putting this down once I started it and was disappointed when I finished because I wanted it to keep going and going.

I love Victory. She’s a take no sass, kick-A, spunky chi...more

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Sep 29, 2011 Stacy rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: from-publisher-author, bewitching-book-tours

reviewed by http://urbanfantasyinvestigations.blo...

Once again Vicky takes on the task of stopping a killer before she ends up dying herself.

There is a lot of new things resolved, revealed and started. I love reading more about Deadtown the people in it and the things that they have to go through. Vicky and Kane's relationship has grown quite a bit. I was kind of sad with the ending of her "maybe" relationship with Daniel but seeing how much Kane and Vicky have grown together and the situations...more

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Aug 10, 2012 Nichole ~~The Grey Lady~~ rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites

This is fast becoming one of my favorite urban fantasy series. I love the character of Vicky. She's strong, but she isn't whiny. A lot of the characters in urban fantasy are strong women with a hint of whiny. Vicky is a down to earth character who is strong and feels so realistic to me. The take on zombies...I mean previously deceased humans...is great. They aren't mindless brain eating zombies. They are just people who happen to have died and come back to life. Tina as a teenage zombie is great...more

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Dec 27, 2012 Melliane rated it 4 of 5 stars

Mon avis en Français

My English review

I must say that I’m reading this series at an incredible speed. This is the first time I read all the volumes of a series in a row. I do not really know how after the fourth I’ve started, I would be able to wait for the next release. Yes because now I’ll have to follow the rhythm of the publications, too bad, it was nice to have all the books...

After a colorful end, we find our dear Vicky who must now face some new challenges. Everything comes together witho...more Mon avis en Français

My English review

I must say that I’m reading this series at an incredible speed. This is the first time I read all the volumes of a series in a row. I do not really know how after the fourth I’ve started, I would be able to wait for the next release. Yes because now I’ll have to follow the rhythm of the publications, too bad, it was nice to have all the books...

After a colorful end, we find our dear Vicky who must now face some new challenges. Everything comes together without downtime, leaving our heroine with more problems than she would like. Juliet is back, but goes directly into the hands of the goon squad as she wants them to protect her. But the elders want her at any price and will do everything to take her. But this is only the beginning ... In fact, the father of Pryce is also ready to do anything he can to wake his son and kill Mab and Vicky; many terrible murders are committed in the city; Maria has a lot of questions about what she is becoming; Kane is transformed into a wolf with no way to turn back and everyone is trying to kill her. So nothing new? But it's really not easy to manage all that and each problem takes a lot of time.

I did not think we would have the opportunity to see Mab in this volume and it was a pleasure to have her in Deadtown. I love this character and I wanted to learn more about her. This volume has granted my wish though we still have a lot of questions. We also learn why Gwen has this particular antipathy for their aunt. It’s something Vicky didn’t know and she learns it with us. Maria also changes in this novel and it was interesting to see the other side of this character. I'm curious to see how far she will be able to go and what she will become. My feeling has also evolved about Kane. Starting the first book I was a bit mixed with him, but I find myself appreciating him more and more. We realize that Victory really appreciates him and that he would do anything for her. Tina is also back, trying to make her way to make our slayer of demons change her mind. I love Tina, she is completely crazy but we feel that even if she often changes her mind, her work with Vicky means a lot for her and she would love to try to do the same thing.

Finally you can see that many things happen in this novel, much more than in the previous one and Vicky is always facing something new, complicating each time her life. It was fascinating to follow our heroine in this story and to understand what was happening. This volume is explosive and fun, I think you will not be disappointed if you enjoyed the first two ones.(less)

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Oct 01, 2011 All Things Urban Fantasy rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviewed-by-abigail

My start with Nancy Holzner's Deadtown series was a bit rocky. I loved the world, I loved the main character, I loved her love life... but I couldn't stand her ever present sidekick, Tina. After Abigail's review of HELLFORGED (which mentioned that it was light on my favorite part of the series, Deadtown itself), I skipped straight to book three. BLOODSTONE was worth wait, with all of the elements I enjoyed in book one and much less Tina fatigue.

While someone could plausibly start the series BLO...more My start with Nancy Holzner's Deadtown series was a bit rocky. I loved the world, I loved the main character, I loved her love life... but I couldn't stand her ever present sidekick, Tina. After Abigail's review of HELLFORGED (which mentioned that it was light on my favorite part of the series, Deadtown itself), I skipped straight to book three. BLOODSTONE was worth wait, with all of the elements I enjoyed in book one and much less Tina fatigue.

While someone could plausibly start the series BLOODSTONE, they would miss out on those first awesome introductions to life in Deadtown. I am fascinated with the world Holzner has created, where victims of the zombie virus and other “more than human” beings live under check points and restrictions that ordinary Americans couldn't imagine. Out of sight, out of mind, and outside of Deadtown ordinary citizens span the spectrum from ignorance and bigotry to fascination with their otherworldly neighbors. Despite having little of zombie poster-girl Tina in the picture, I felt like BLOODSTONE did the best job yet portraying the realities of living in this world. Simple moments with zombie neighbors, the realities of life with checkpoints, and once again, parents contemplating forced relocation to Deadtown or losing their preternatural child all had me imagining my life within these strictures, or worse yet, to wonder if I would be living outside the walls, oblivious.

Exploring the realities of Deadtown definitely stole the show for me in this book. The serial killer and demi-demon plot wasn’t bad, but it wasn’t interesting enough to compete with the world in general. While I have no urge to go back to book two and fill in the blanks, and no particular urge to read future books just to resolve the rest of the plot, I will be keeping my eyes open for more books by Holzner. She has an eye for daily details that add wonderful depth to her world, and preternatural elements aside, I can’t resist the scarily plausible political realities of Deadtown.

Sexual Content: Kissing, references to sex and attempted rape.(less)

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Oct 04, 2011 Nikki Brandyberry rated it 3 of 5 stars

Bloodstone is a urban fantasy that has a bit of everything within it’s pages. Lots of action, a bit of romance and a world that included damn near everything you can think of. I had not read the previous two books and I think that hampered my experience a bit. This is definitely one series that I would say it’s best to start from the beginning. I felt lost for most of the book and had a hard time connecting with the characters or story line. Had I read the last two I think I would have felt more...more Bloodstone is a urban fantasy that has a bit of everything within it’s pages. Lots of action, a bit of romance and a world that included damn near everything you can think of. I had not read the previous two books and I think that hampered my experience a bit. This is definitely one series that I would say it’s best to start from the beginning. I felt lost for most of the book and had a hard time connecting with the characters or story line. Had I read the last two I think I would have felt more invested in what was going on and would have had different reactions to this one.

I will say one thing, Nancy Holzner knows how to write an action sequence! There was so many things happening in this book that these were definitely in high demand. I thought that Vicky was completely kick ass and held her own against all the creatures that seemed to constantly be lurking around. I liked the unquie way she went about vanquishing ghosts and demons as a day job. Being barred to Deadtown might have held her back in some ways, but it gave her the edge in others. She was in high demand in her field work. I loved Kane her werewolf boyfriend and I found that I bought into their relationship, even though the romantic in me wanted more on that side…but since this is more UF I understood that there wasn’t.

There is one thing though, and maybe it’s because I’ve been reading a lot of UF and paranormal romance. I get tired of the scenario where all paranormals are segregated from the “normal” humans. I think I like the story lines where the paranormals are more in hiding. I guess I like to think humans would be better…when in all reality segregation is probably would what happen. So sue me, I like to be positive. :) But I think I just find that a lot of story lines are blurring together, this is just one example of that. I do love Nancy’s guest post today though explaining the background of Deadtown and after reading that I have a new found appreciation for what I found between the pages of Bloodstone. It gave me something to focus on.

Bloodstone is a dark and gritty addition into the urban fantasy genre and fans of the Deadtown series won’t be disappointed! Nancy Holzner gives her readers a tale of survival and cunning with a twist of magic and excitement. Vicky is a heroine not to be messed with and to do so is only inviting pain and retribution!

I give Bloodstone by Nancy Holzner 3 stars!(less)

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Nov 15, 2011 Shandy Jo rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: paranormal, urban-fantasy, zombie, review-2011

This is book the third installment of the Deadtown series. Vicky's story continues, she still battling demon for a living. In this book Vicky isn't just fighting demons but the Old One, uber old vampires. She has to vampire roommate Juliet hide from them. Since they want to make her a guniea pig. There's a crazy demi-demon and serial killer on the loose.
In this installment I learned even more about Mab, Vicky and Gwen's relationship. Which was interesting and helped to learn more about Vicky's r...more

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Sep 05, 2012 Suz rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: urban-fantasy

This is really good and consistent series. The world is engaging even if the zombies are a bit fluffy and funny. I'm still pleased that the triangle trope that was developing in the early books was resolved in the last book and remained so into this book, with the romantic relationship continuing to blossom and strengthen without it being too much of a focus of the story.

In the last book I said that the long arc was resolved with the destruction of a nemesis and a new bad guy was set up. I was w...more

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Jan 18, 2012 Kathy rated it 5 of 5 stars

The Best One Yet!

I strongly suggest you read the previous books in the series (Deadtown and Hellforged) prior to reading this installment. Also check out a free prequel- A Very Zombie New Years novella on the authors website.

Curiouser and curiouser......this installment was all about dark secrets being revealed. Fans of this series, this is definitely a must read! If I thought the last installment was good, this one blew it out of the water!

This fast and fun read was both mysterious and intrigu...more

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Dec 02, 2011 Jacquelynn Fritz rated it 3 of 5 stars

This is the third book of the series, but the first book that I've read. Its about Vicky, who is a demon exterminator. Boston has a serial killer who is a paranormal and Vicky along with her boyfriend, Kane and Aunt Mab are out to find out who it is and get rid of him. Vicky is also trying to help her sister, Gwen and niece, Maria come to terms with the fact that Maria is becoming a shape shifter. The family interactions are fun and true to life. I liked the book and will read the others in the...more

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Apr 03, 2012 Deborah Blake rated it 5 of 5 stars

“They call it Deadtown: the city’s quarantined section for its inhuman and undead residents. Mostly humans stay far from its borders—but Victory Vaughn, Boston’s only professional demon slayer, isn’t exactly human…”

If this blurb sounds intriguing to you, I can guarantee that the book itself more than lives up to it. BLOODSTONE, the third in author Nancy Holzner’s Deadtown series, is a fun and fabulous paranormal romp from the very first page. And the action never stops long enough for you to cat...more

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Feb 06, 2012 Jeff rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: recommended

What can I say about Bloodstone, the third book in the Deadtown series by Nancy Holzner, except to say that its the best so far. Nancy Holzner is one of the best authors at creating characters that you love to read about and want to know more about. And not just the main
character herself, but her friends and and supporting family and others are all just as carefully thought out by Holzners knack for bringing her characters to life.

If you have read her past two novels in the Deadtown series, fro...more

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Nov 23, 2011 Jen (That's What I'm Talking About) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: deadtown-series

My Rating: 4 stars: Enjoyed - strongly recommend(A-)

Full review: http://www.twimom227.com/2011/11/revi...

Once again, demon-hunter Victory (Vicky) Vaughn, finds herself involved with the darker side of Boston’s paranormal scene. She has a day job - demon-slayer for hire, but it’s the extra-curricular hunting that’s putting her life - and those she loves - in danger.

The story opens with Vicky just “doing her job” of killing off unwanted nuisance demons - this time a “7 deadly sins” demon has crea...more My Rating: 4 stars: Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)

Full review: http://www.twimom227.com/2011/11/revi...

Once again, demon-hunter Victory (Vicky) Vaughn, finds herself involved with the darker side of Boston’s paranormal scene. She has a day job - demon-slayer for hire, but it’s the extra-curricular hunting that’s putting her life - and those she loves - in danger.

The story opens with Vicky just “doing her job” of killing off unwanted nuisance demons - this time a “7 deadly sins” demon has created too much sloth and gluttony in a gym. Ms. Holzner’s sense of humor shines here and for the duration the story. Vicky has a snarky side - a dry wit that made me smile several times.

After completing her job, Vicky and her werewolf boyfriend, Kane, visit Vicky’s “normal” sister and family in the suburbs. I really enjoyed the family dynamics in this scene, as well as throughout the book. Every interaction Vicky has with her sister Gwen, niece Maria and the mysterious Aunt Mab allows the reader to see more depth in our kick-ass heroine. These parts of the book do not overwhelm the plot, but add just the perfect amount of “emotion” and perspective to create a rich storyline and sincere characters.

Of course, life doesn’t remain all sunshine and roses for Vicky. Soon she discovers that her nemesis, “cousin” Pryce, is still in the picture, with his demon father killing off innocents to revive Pryce (who remains in a coma after the events in the last book). Also, Vicky’s missing vampire roommate, Juliet, remains on the run from the mysterious and ultra-evil “Old Ones.” These two storylines merge and create an intricate plot which brings Aunt Mab from Wales to Boston to help Vicky defeat the bad guys. (The phrase “This time it’s personal” is very appropriate.)

All-in-all a fantastic book - one that I couldn’t put down. A bit reminiscent of Buffy and Angel, with a voice all its own, the Deadtown series is one to add to your must read list!(less)

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Oct 25, 2011 Cathy rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban, angels-demons, fantasy, magic-users, paranormal, read-in-2011, romance, shifter-not-wolf, vampire, werewolf

Another very good story by Holtzner. What I liked best about this one was the mix of personal emotional issues with the action plot. There was a lot going in with Vicky's sister Gwen and her adorable niece, Maria, as Maria developed her shapeshifter abilities. There was also a lot with Vicky and Gwen's aunt Mab, both as part of the action and part of the family dynamics. Mab is just a fun and fascinating character, it was great to have her as a bigger part of the book and to learn new about her...more Another very good story by Holtzner. What I liked best about this one was the mix of personal emotional issues with the action plot. There was a lot going in with Vicky's sister Gwen and her adorable niece, Maria, as Maria developed her shapeshifter abilities. There was also a lot with Vicky and Gwen's aunt Mab, both as part of the action and part of the family dynamics. Mab is just a fun and fascinating character, it was great to have her as a bigger part of the book and to learn new about her finally as well.

I did think that the big story was a bit jumbled. Mixing up the evil Old Ones vampire Druids with the already existing villain half-demon Pryce, and his wizard half-demon father, who turned out to be yet another ridiculously famous historical figure, was a bit messy. Having Juliet (yes, THE Juliet) mixed up in it was even messier. Having Mab turn out to be who she is made sense considering the rest of all this, and was pretty much as I expected given the hints from previous books and during this one. But it's bothered me from the beginning that the author puts so many famous people in the books. Many authors try to live the fantasy of populating their books with historical figures, but it always feels awkward and unrealistic to me. What are the chances that so many famous people ended up in Boston dealing with Vicky? Maybe the villains considering her now-revealed family history, but Juliet as a roommate? It's silly.

And it was kind if weird that Vicky only changed shape once in the book. She used her abilities in other ways, such as the "dream phone" but she didn't shapeshift until the end, and then only very briefly. I think the limitation of making her not able to use her human memory in animal form limits the use of the shapeshift ability as a storytelling technique. If she could remember who she was and use the animal form to her advantage it would be more useful.

Anyway, none of that was critical, the story was exciting and fun. There was a lot of action, some good humor, and I even liked Kane better this time around. Tina wasn't in it much, and when she was she was not annoying - Mab set her straight, very fun! As I said, there were some great emotional dynamics, both with the family situations and even with one of the sort-of villains. The exploration of Deadtown and the issues that the paranormal community faces continues to be richly portrayed and parallels many of the issues any minority community faces, obviously taken to extremes here, but really saying things about prejudice and tolerance that are important and relevant. So, it's a fun and thoughtful book that urban fantasy fans should enjoy. (less)

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Jan 11, 2012 Paula Weston rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: paranormal

This is a quality third instalment in Nancy Holzner's series. The first book (Deadtown) set up the paranormal enclave and its politics. The second (Hellforged) introduced more of the mythology surrounding Vicky's family heritage and the demon world she can cross into. Bloodstone brings those two elements together.

This book delves deeper than the other two in both areas: we get more information on how the zombie plague came to be, learn more about Vicky's immediate family, and know more about the...more

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Dec 01, 2011 Shanshad Whelan rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: fantasy, series, urban-fantasy

A decent third in this series. I can't say I'm as taken with it as some books, but the author has done some nice world building and story crafting here. It's nice to see some different sorts of paranormal critters, good and bad. One of my two main complaints are that Holzner's sheer number of different characters can make it hard for me to keep track of everyone at any given time. There were a couple of incidents where I suddenly stopped and did a mental "wait . . . what? who?" before figuring o...more

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Dec 13, 2011 Shelley aka Gizmo's Reviews rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2011-releases, borrowed-library, genre-urban-fantasy

*Rating* 3.0
*Genre* Urban Fantasy

*Review*

Bloodstone, by Nancy Holzner, is the third novel in the Deadtown series. Vicky Vaughn, our protagonist, is Boston’s only licensed professional demon exterminator. She is also a Cerdorion (after the Goddess Ceridwen) shape shifter and would be heir to her aunt Mab. Vaughn exterminates personal demons, Harpies, and a plethora of other villainous paranorms that she encounters in her day to day life.

One of the things that never changes in this series is Vicky...more

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Oct 09, 2011 Kristi-The Book Faery rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: demons, ghosts, penquin, bbt, mystery, blog-tour, fantasy, series-to-watch-for, werewolves, suspense, thriller, ya-arc-for-2011, ya-pnr-2011, ya-pub-date-sep-11, ya-reviewed, ya-series, zombie

Review on its way! FANTASTIC book and FANTASTIC series!!!

Nancy Holzner never lets me down when it comes to her ability to keep me enthralled with the adventures of Vicky Vaughn and friends (and enemies!)!

Bloodstone contains mild to moderate sexual content, language and violence.

16+ depending on maturity level.

THE FAERY SAYS THIS IS A ROCK YOUR SOCKS OFF READ!!!

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Nov 03, 2011 Ron rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban_fantasy

Another solid entry in the series--best one so far. Maintains the pace, action and intrigue of the first two and continues to develop the characters in interesting ways. If you've run out of Jim Butcher, try this series.

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Oct 01, 2011 Julia rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: arcs, fantasy, fiction, urban, available-for-swap

Loved Deadtown, loved how little Tina was in this book, other than that the book kind of fades away from me. Holzner's world is amazing, I'm fascinated by Vicky's movement through it, but I could care less about these villains.

Full review at All Things Urban Fantasy.

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Oct 28, 2011 Mara rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: urban-fantasy

3 and 1/2 stars but I like Ms Holzner's series and I'll round up to 4.

Pro:
-Tina is out (and hopefully she'll stay out), Deadtown is in, in in. If you loved Deadtown's world-building, you'll love this book.
- Finally we discover what happened between Gwen and Mab.:)

Cons. I can't really find any important one. If I have to find one, the plot wasn't that catching. (I stopped and read a lot of other book in the meantime). But it is still intriguing.

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Bloodstone (Deadtown #3)

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Bloodstone (Deadtown #3)

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